Most COVID-linked movement problems ease in weeks for many

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Key Takeaway

Most people who develop new movement problems after COVID-19 get better within weeks to months, though a small number have lasting symptoms.

What They Found

Researchers collected cases of new movement problems that began after a COVID-19 infection and checked how people did over time. On average, these movements started about 12 to 13 days after COVID symptoms began, and most people (92%) needed hospitalization for their illness. The types of movement problems included unsteady walking or coordination (ataxia), sudden jerks (myoclonus), shaking (tremor), and symptoms like Parkinson’s disease (parkinsonism). Most people recovered without lasting problems within several weeks or months, but about 22% in this group still had movement issues after about 7–8 weeks. Severe COVID-19 and brain involvement (encephalopathy, which means the brain was affected) made lingering problems more likely, but they were not strong, sure predictors.

Who Should Care and Why

People with MS and their caregivers should know that COVID can sometimes cause new movement problems, which might add to existing balance, walking, or coordination challenges. If someone with MS gets COVID and then begins jerking movements, tremors, or trouble walking, getting medical attention is important because many of these cases needed hospital care. Most people improved over weeks to months, so this can be reassuring—think of it like a sprained ankle that often heals with time and care, not a permanent loss. Those who had severe COVID or signs the brain was affected should watch more closely, as they were more likely to have longer problems. Doctors, therapists, and caregivers can use this information to plan follow-up, physical therapy, or symptom-management while watching for recovery.

Important Considerations

The study looked at reported cases from the literature and only got follow-up details for about one third, so the results may not represent everyone who had these problems. Because people in the reports were different ages and had different health issues, we can’t be sure which exact factors cause long-term problems. This means patients should discuss their own risk and recovery timeline with their healthcare team instead of assuming the same outcome for everyone.

AI-generated summary — for informational purposes only, not medical advice

Categories:

Specific Symptoms Early Research Living with MS

Article Topics:

COVIDLong covidMovement disorderMyoclonus ataxiaOutcomeParkinsonismSars-CoV2

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or are seeking to broaden your understanding of this complex, neurodegenerative disease, navigating the latest research can feel overwhelming. Studies published in respected medical journals like Journal of neurology often range from early-stage, exploratory work to advanced clinical trials. These evidence-based findings help shape new disease-modifying therapies, guide symptom management techniques, and deepen our knowledge of MS progression.

However, not all research is created equal. Some clinical research studies may have smaller sample sizes, evolving methodologies, or limitations that warrant careful interpretation. For a more comprehensive, accurate understanding, we recommend reviewing the original source material—accessible via the More Details section above—and consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in MS care.

By presenting a wide range of MS-focused studies—spanning cutting-edge treatments, emerging therapies, and established best practices—we aim to empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians to stay informed and make well-informed decisions when managing Multiple Sclerosis.

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